World Religious Symbols and Their Meanings Art by Talon Abraxas

Meaning of Symbols Common to Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism

1.The Dharma Wheel is the main Buddhist symbol, but it also appears in Hinduism and Jainism. It represents Dharmic views on morality and cosmic law. With eight spokes, it denotes the moral virtues on the Buddhist Eightfold Path.

2.The Swastika is an ancient symbol. Clockwise, it represents the motion of the Sun in Hinduism. Counterclockwise, it is the night and the Hindu goddess Kali. In Buddhism, it symbolizes Buddha's footprints and the cycle of life. In Jainism, the arms denote the four types of rebirth for the soul.

3.The Lotus flower symbolizes divinity, perfection, immortality, and various Hindu deities. In Buddhism, it expresses purity of the body and mind. In Jainism, semi-divine prophets are represented by or seated upon them.

4.The Endless Knot or "Srivatsa" and Pair of Fish appear in Ashtamangala: a set of eight symbols (most are pictograms of sacred objects) that differ between traditions. The knot represents unity, the cycle of rebirth, and wisdom entwined with compassion. The fish symbolize happiness, freedom, and fearlessness.

5.Symbols may be combined into Yantra, which usually have T-shapes on their borders to symbolize inner enlightenment. They may be associated with deities, luck, protection, or used as meditative aids.

Meaning of Other Hindu Symbols

1.The Om appears in all Dharmic traditions (variously translated), although it is technically a written symbol. It is included here because it has become the main symbol of Hinduism. It represents the supreme, divine consciousness.

2.The Ouroboros appears in several religious traditions (the oldest may be Ancient Egypt; see below). In Hindu mythology, it is one of the animals that holds up the world.

3.The Conch shell or "Shankha" represents Vishnu, water, female fertility, longevity, and prosperity.

Meaning of Other Buddhist Symbols

1.The Conch shell also appears in Buddhism. It can be used as a trumpet and thus represents the awakening influence of Buddhist teachings.

2.The Triratna represents the three jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha (enlightened one), Dharma (teachings), and Sangha (clergy).

3.A Bodhi tree is where Buddha achieved awakening, and its symbol thus represents liberation and nirvana.

4.Buddha footprints represent Buddha as a man, and as following a path that all humans can therefore follow.

5.Buddha eyes symbolize his all-seeing nature. Their display may promote moral behavior in a society.

Meaning of Other Jain Symbols

1.The Nandavarta symbolizes teaching, enlightenment, joy, and prosperity.

2.The Ahimsa represents the principle of non-violence (beginning with non-violence against oneself).

Meaning of Sikh Symbols

1.The Khanda is the primary Sikh symbol. It stands for the provision of charity and protection to those who need it.

2.The Harr Nishan is a symbol of the Ravidassia branch of Sikhism. It represents the goal of enlightenment through worship, meditation, and singing.